Slow Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs Recipe
Mississippi Meatballs are a rich, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or game-day gatherings. These tender, juicy meatballs simmer in a slow cooker with a bold mix of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy, and pepperoncini peppers, delivering a savory and tangy taste. This easy, set-it-and-forget-it recipe is a must-try for any home cook.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Just dump the ingredients into a slow cooker and let it do the work.
- Rich & Bold Flavors: The combination of ranch, au jus, and pepperoncini creates an irresistible taste.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect over mashed potatoes, rice, or as a sandwich filling.
- Great for Meal Prep: These meatballs store well and taste even better the next day.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs
To make this delicious, melt-in-your-mouth dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Sauce:
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- ½ cup butter (1 stick), cut into pieces
- 1 cup pepperoncini peppers with juice
- ½ cup beef broth
Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Form into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- For a firmer texture, sear meatballs in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Place the meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle ranch seasoning mix and au jus gravy mix over the meatballs.
- Add butter pieces, pepperoncini peppers, and beef broth.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
- Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even coating.
- The sauce will thicken as the meatballs absorb the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Over Mashed Potatoes: The rich gravy complements creamy mashed potatoes.
- With Rice or Pasta: Serve over fluffy rice or buttered egg noodles.
- As a Sandwich: Load into a hoagie roll with melted provolone cheese.
- As an Appetizer: Skewer with toothpicks for party-style serving.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigeration:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of beef broth to loosen the sauce.
Freezing:
- Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a slow cooker on LOW.
Tips for the Best Mississippi Meatball

- Use Fresh Ground Beef: Higher fat content ensures moist meatballs.
- Sear for More Flavor: Browning meatballs before slow cooking enhances texture.
- Adjust Heat Level: For extra spice, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) in the last 30 minutes.
- Make it Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream for a rich, velvety sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes! Use pre-cooked frozen meatballs and reduce the cooking time to 3-4 hours on LOW.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook on the stovetop in a large skillet over low heat for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
What can I use instead of pepperoncini?
Try banana peppers or jalapeños for a similar tangy flavor.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a homemade au jus mix (cornstarch + beef bouillon + seasonings).
